Invasive Plant Walkabout!

Lampson Brook Farm 275 Jackson St., Belchertown, United States

Identification and marking of invasive plants. We will focus on the more pernicious species, such as multiflora rose, prior to leafing out. We will discuss options for control, according to plant type, morphology and growth strategy. Control options will be consistent with an integrated pest management (IPM) approach. Conventional and mechanical (organic-friendly) methods will be discussed.

NOFA NH Organic Gardening Series – Native Perennial Food Plants For Your Edible Landscape

Online

When placed in habitats that meet their needs, native plants tend to be well adapted to our climate and have few pest, disease or maintenance problems. This illustrated talk will describe the growth habit, preferred habitat, care required, food value, other users, aesthetic appeal and propagation techniques for over 25 native perennial plants you can include in your edible landscape. The plants range from trees to bushes, groundcovers, roots and even vines. If you want to create an edible hedge, an edible bed, a foundation planting, a you-pick venue, or a forest garden, you will discover there are a variety of native food plants to choose from to fill you space.

$10 – $20

2024 Microscopy Training

Online

CT NOFA is offering microscopy training in 2024. Participants will view various soils and composts, looking at the different soil structures and the microbes that thrive in healthy soil. Demonstrations include how to prepare a slide for viewing, what you might find and how to evaluate your findings. Participants will be trained to analyze the following:

$600

Compost Tea: Is it right for me?

12 Randall Lane, Mattapoisett, MA 12 Randall Lane, Mattapoisett, United States

Interested in making compost teas and extracts for a living soil? Discover efficient methods to introduce and multiply the beneficial microbes found in high quality compost into your growing spaces. Join us for a presentation and discussion on brewing techniques and how to apply them. Understand the biological needs of the soil you work with and the plants that your soil supports. Learn to assess compost and additional ”food” for the microbes within compost.

$30 – $70

No-till Gardens and Farms: Healthy Soil, Heal Climate

Online

An experiential learning packed afternoon suitable to farmers or enthusiastic gardeners seeking to learn and use no-till methods that use simple tools, build healthy soil, reduce labor and cost inputs, and promote climate resilience. A perfect time of year to learn and introduce several techniques that build healthy soil. Led by Seeds of Solidarity farmer, co-founder Ricky Baruc, known for his no-till farming successes and invigorating teaching style. Pre-registration required.

MAPN monthly meeting

Online

Massachusetts Pollinator Network Monthly meeting. “Developing Pollinator Curriculum for Schools,” with Jocelyn Demuth of Checkerspot Farm

TOPP: Organics and Food Safety

Online

There are points of both overlap and tension for farms trying to meet organic and food safety standards. In this workshop, we’ll cover the principles and requirements of both and the ways that growers can meet them effectively and streamline their efforts as much as possible. Topics will include selecting and handling soil amendments, agricultural water management, and recordkeeping.